KEIGHLEY TAKEAWAY WORKER MUHAMMAD ARSHAD SENTENCED FOR SEXUAL ABUSE OF CHILD IN BRADFORD
In a recent court ruling at Bradford Crown Court, Muhammad Arshad, a 37-year-old takeaway worker from Keighley, was sentenced to 18 months in prison after being convicted of multiple sexual assault offences involving a minor.The case drew significant attention due to the serious nature of the allegations and the impact on the young victim.
During the trial held in May, the court heard detailed accounts of Arshad’s misconduct, which primarily involved groping and molesting the child.
The offences were described as deeply invasive and damaging, leaving the young victim feeling utterly worthless and degraded.
In a heartfelt victim impact statement, the child recounted how the traumatic experiences had left them feeling paralyzed with anxiety, highlighting the profound emotional scars inflicted by the abuse.
Muhammad Arshad, who resides on Simpson Street in Keighley, had no prior criminal record before these offences came to light.
Despite his clean record, the court recognized the severity of his actions and the lasting harm caused.
Judge Kirstie Watson emphasized the significant effect the offences had on the victim, stating that the impact was undeniable and deeply troubling.
Throughout the proceedings, Arshad maintained his innocence, continuing to deny the allegations.
The judge expressed her concern over his persistent denial, indicating that she saw little hope for rehabilitation under the current circumstances.
As a result, she decided that only a custodial sentence would serve as an appropriate punishment for his crimes.
In addition to his prison term, Muhammad Arshad will be required to register as a sex offender with the police for the next ten years.
He will also be subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order, which will restrict his activities and monitor his conduct for the same period.
The court’s decision underscores the seriousness with which such offences are treated and the importance of safeguarding vulnerable individuals from predatory behaviour.